Extension offers local healthy living program

ELIZABETH HEFFNER

Staff Writer

Individuals living with chronic conditions now have another opportunity to learn how to best manage their symptoms.

North Carolina Cooperative Extension and Senior Services will be hosting a “Living Healthy Program.” The six-week program was developed by Stanford University to help individuals with one or more chronic conditions such as diabetes, chronic pain, high blood pressure, cancer, arthritis and migraine headaches, and learn to manage their condition and their life. According to the university’s study, most people with chronic conditions suffer fatigue, pain, anxiety, depression and sleeping problems that feed on themselves in a continuous cycle.

Each session, the participants will make an action plan focusing on a specific, realistic goal they wish to achieve. Topics covered throughout the Living Healthy Program include techniques on dealing with frustration, fatigue, pain and isolation, appropriate exercise for maintaining and improving strength, flexibility and endurance, appropriate use of medications, communicating effectively with family, friends and health professionals, nutrition and new treatment evaluations.

The program will begin March 12, and it will continue for six consecutive Wednesdays from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Those interested in participating in the free program must register by March 7. For more information about the Living Healthy program, contact Melinda Houser of the North Carolina Cooperative Extension at (704) 736-8461. The program will be held at the Cooperative Extension located at the Citizens Center. A light lunch will be provided.